In the words of Choices editor Jim Ward, “I’ve always thought there should be a machine that was the opposite of a microwave that makes things really cold really fast.” That’s not verbatim, but you get the idea.

OK, so it isn’t box-shaped like a microwave, but it is popsicle-sized. Which, when you think about it, is really the only thing you would want to make really cold really fast; unless you’re picking and flash freezing your own vegetables, or maybe freshly caught filleted fish.

And, if you’re a sugar-craving adult 4-year-old who wants a homemade popsicle RIGHT NOW, yes Virginia, there is a popsicle machine that makes delicious frozen treats in a mere 7 minutes. It’s called the ZOKU QuickPop Maker.

Is it magic??? I bet toddlers think so :-)

Please, please tell me if you have this and if it’s as wonderful as it looks. Any child growing up in the last 50-60 years probably had those “make-your-own popsicle” sets, but it just isn’t the same. I can see it now.

“When I was your age, I had to wait at least four-hours for my homemade popsicles.”

Of course, the best part is, you can get all super-sneaky and put healthy stuff in these popsicles, like fresh-fruit and veggie juice. They can also look beautiful if you get an array of accessories and tools to make layers, designs and more.

Stars! and Stripes!

There’s even another machine to aid you in covering the pops with chocolate!

The ZOKU isn’t the only amazing food/kitchen item Pacific Treasures has in its well-stocked inventory. With gifts of all sorts, this is truly one of those stores where you find something you didn’t know you needed but now you HAVE to have.

I really, really want to know if this works like the package says. Good-bye to the days of rubbing toothpaste on these Diva phalanges to remove garlic stink!

And it’s shiny!

And here’s a pretty idea, especially for the person who:

Hates scrubbing muffin tins.

Doesn’t own muffin tins.

Wants some really pretty muffins.

So they can be filled free-standing, no muffin tin needed.

Then there’s Raft Skewers – why the raft part, I’m not sure. Because they keep asparagus and other skinny veggies/meats/etc. from falling into a river of coals? Either way, they look handy and practical.

Or maybe because they’re shaped like a raft? I know I’m missing something here with the name…